Overview

This module provides an in-depth exploration of public health principles, health promotion, and community nursing, with a particular focus on primary care. It covers strategies to improve population health, address health inequalities, and enhance community well-being through effective primary care initiatives. Students will critically examine the social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status, education, and access to healthcare, and explore strategies for empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their physical and mental health. The module emphasizes health promotion, culturally competent health education, and the importance of health literacy in primary care settings. Key topics include community health assessments, health policies and advocacy, and the role of primary care professionals in building partnerships with local organisations, schools, and governments to promote health. The module also explores ethical considerations, digital health technologies (like telemedicine), and methods for sustaining long-term health improvements within primary care. This module is designed for those looking to advance their skills in primary care, public health, and integrated community health, preparing them to address health disparities and improve the overall health of communities.

The module may include:

Foundations of Community Health

Social Determinants of Health

Community Health Assessment

Health Promotion and Education

Building Community Partnerships

Health Policy and Advocacy

Sustaining Community Health

Ethical Considerations in Community Health

Community and Public Health Nursing

Digital Health and Emerging Technologies

Assessment Strategy

Assessment Grading Criteria The following grading thresholds outline the expectations for academic performance and professional capability in relation to the role of the Specialist Practitioner. These criteria are aligned with the module learning outcomes, the standards set by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), and the academic regulations of the University, which expect students to demonstrate progression in critical thinking, academic integrity, and reflective, evidence-informed practice. Assessment outcomes are benchmarked against university-wide marking criteria to ensure consistency, fairness, and academic rigour.

Excellent Pass (A-) An excellent pass is awarded for work of outstanding academic quality. This includes: A comprehensive and critical understanding of the subject area. Independent thinking, originality, and depth in analysis and argumentation. Sophisticated use of evidence and effective synthesis of information to support practice. Work that is logically reasoned, clearly structured, and reflects a high standard of academic scholarship. Advanced critical thinking and reflective capacity, demonstrating strong engagement with the topic.

Good Pass (B-) A good pass reflects a consistent and competent level of academic performance. Students at this level demonstrate: A sound understanding of core concepts and frameworks. Evidence of critical analysis and the ability to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application. Thoughtful reflection on aspects of leadership, coproduction, and healthcare improvement. A logical and clear academic structure, with appropriate use of supporting evidence. Compliance with the academic expectations for postgraduate study, including critical engagement and clarity of expression.

Threshold (Pass – C-) To achieve a pass, students must attain a minimum grade of C-. This grade demonstrates that the student has: Met the essential module requirements. Engaged with core content at a foundational level, with limited but appropriate application of relevant knowledge to practice. Demonstrated a basic ability to reflect on key areas such as nursing leadership and quality improvement. Identified relevant evidence, though analysis and synthesis may be limited. Met expectations for academic integrity, presentation, and adherence to academic conventions such as referencing and structure.

This reflects the university’s highest expectations for postgraduate academic achievement, including intellectual originality, advanced critical thinking, and clear synthesis of knowledge into professional practice.

Learning Outcomes

• Critically analyse the principles of public health and health promotion, along with the factors that influence various health inequalities and patterns of health.

• Critically evaluate the principles of public health and their application to community nursing practice, demonstrating a systematic understanding of strategies to address health inequalities and improve population health outcomes.

• Explore concepts and skills for behaviour change that empower individuals to make informed health-related decisions throughout different life stages.

• Identify strategies to assist individuals in managing their physical and mental health, aligned with national and local policies and guidance that reflect the current public health agenda.